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South Africa · Southern Africa · Safari

Kruger National Park

South Africa’s flagship park: Big Five, excellent roads and options for every budget.

Best timeMay to Oct
Ideal stay3 to 4 nights
GatewayKruger Mpumalanga (MQP), Skukuza or Johannesburg
Month by month
  1. JAnuary
  2. FEbruary
  3. MArch
  4. APril
  5. MAy (good)
  6. JUne (good)
  7. JUly (good)
  8. AUgust (good)
  9. SEptember (good)
  10. OCtober (good)
  11. NOvember
  12. DEcember

Kruger is one of the best places to see the Big Five, and one of the few big parks you can explore in your own car. Private reserves along its western edge, such as Sabi Sand, offer off-road tracking and very close leopard sightings.

LionLeopardElephantCape buffaloWhite rhinoAfrican wild dog

Highlights

  • Self-drive safaris
  • Leopards in Sabi Sand
  • Guided bush walks
  • Panorama Route nearby

Wildlife to look for

Where to stay

Affordable government rest camps inside the park, or luxury lodges in the private reserves next to it.

Getting there

Fly to Skukuza, Kruger Mpumalanga or Hoedspruit, or drive about 5 hours from Johannesburg.

Tips

  • Book SANParks rest camps early for school holidays.
  • Gates close at set times; plan your drives around them.
  • The dry winter months (about May to September) are best for spotting animals.

Best time to visit

May to Oct. See where to go in Africa in May and our guide to the best time to visit Africa.

Plan your stay

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Kruger National Park?

May to Oct. Book SANParks rest camps early for school holidays.

How long should I spend at Kruger National Park?

3 to 4 nights.

How do I get to Kruger National Park?

Fly to Skukuza, Kruger Mpumalanga or Hoedspruit, or drive about 5 hours from Johannesburg.

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